Redirection not rejection: A 4Ps journey of hope and triumph

Testimony of France Niño Cadao
Former 4Ps beneficiary

NUEVA VALENCIA, Guimaras- Growing up, I faced discrimination and bullying for simply being different, but my parents’ love was my sanctuary.

They were my biggest supporters, reminding me there was nothing wrong with who I was. Despite our family’s struggles as farmers, living “isang kahig, isang tuka,” they taught me the value of hard work and kindness.

A memory I hold dear is when an old woman, seeing our need, gave us food, her words “you can’t eat if you’re not given anything” teaching me a profound lesson about gratitude and the importance of helping others.

Life began to change when my family became a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). This program wasn’t just financial aid; it was a lifeline that helped us afford food, school supplies, and other necessities. Before 4Ps, I sold homemade polvoron to buy my lunch, but with their help, I was able to focus on my studies. This support was the turning point that allowed me to pour all my energy into learning and to pursue a dream that once seemed impossible: attending college.

With the support of 4Ps, I was able to enroll in college, and my perseverance paid off. Despite our financial struggles, I took on a scholarship and earned money on the side by offering manicure and beautification services to my boardmates. In 2018, I graduated with academic honors and was awarded “Best Researcher.” That same year, I passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers on my first try.

My journey eventually led me to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), where I realized how fulfilling it is to serve others. I became Social Welfare Assistant of the Social Pension Program (SocPen) assigned in the Province of Aklan, an opportunity I accepted despite the distance from home, serving others especially the elderly which is incredibly fulfilling. And now I am serving as a 4Ps Municipal Link (ML) guiding my fellow beneficiaries.

I am proud product of the 4Ps program and a testament to the power of resilience and redirection. I chose to not let judgment define me, but instead, to use my experiences to help others. My story is a reflection of how a little hope, combined with determination and support, can transform a life. Forever, I remain thankful to the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, a lifeline, a blessing, a bridge to a better life. (Submitted by Guimaras POO)

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